This adaptation of E.T.A. Hoffmann's classic tale of magic, love, and loyalty is illustrated with the appropriately toy-like paintings of Paola Fratalocchi Ventura, in which Marie, the Nutcracker, the fairies in the Land of Sweets, and even the Mouse King look like beautiful dolls. The petite edition, for all ages, is presented in a Christmassy red clamshell box that reveals two three-dimensional tableaus inside: the children and Godfather Drosselmeier at the Christmas tree; and Nutcracker and Marie passing by the Marzipan Castle.